More cancer drugs submitted for federal approval

Pazdur's department has approved several cancer drugs ahead of its deadlines, Reuters reported.

"It is much easier to approve drugs that have greater efficacy," Pazdur said. "Our staff is interested getting the drugs out earlier ... it has to be drug that we really think is important."

At a recent meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, scientists noted several advances that have increased the sophistication of cancer treatments and reduced side effects. Of note are "smart" drugs that attack cancer cells but leave healthy ones alone.